Jan 8, 2025 | Editors' Blog
Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
A great drama, full of spectacle; that was what Kit had said he should write. But the trouble was that he could not for the life of him think of a story. A dozen or more times he had put pen to paper and begun to sketch out a plot, only to be defeated after an hour or two, left with a few incoherent scribbles that led nowhere.
General Summary for Context:
This historical fiction novel delves into the formative years of the Bard, offering a captivating blend of history and imaginative speculation. Fleeing the familiar confines of Stratford, a young Shakespeare becomes enmeshed in the vibrant yet perilous world of Elizabethan England. Through encounters with actors, spies, and conspirators, the story vividly portrays the challenges and intrigues that shaped his early life.
The novel masterfully intertwines adventure with historical depth, painting a richly detailed backdrop of an era filled with danger and opportunity. By exploring how these experiences could have influenced Shakespeare’s later masterpieces, the book provides a fresh and thought-provoking perspective on the origins of his genius.
For fans of history and literature alike, this book offers a thrilling glimpse into the untold story of one of the world’s greatest playwrights. It’s an engaging read that not only entertains but also invites readers to consider how life’s trials and triumphs can inspire timeless art.
Concise Review:
This imaginative historical novel delves into the enduring mystery of Shakespeare’s “lost years,” set against the turbulent backdrop of late 16th-century England. During the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, an era rife with political intrigue, religious conflict, and a flourishing cultural renaissance, the young Shakespeare flees Stratford under mysterious circumstances. His journey entwines him with a troupe of wandering actors, cunning spies, and shadowy conspirators operating in the perilous world of Elizabethan England.
The novel masterfully captures the cultural and political tensions of the period, painting a vivid portrait of Shakespeare’s potential formative experiences. Through a speculative and thrilling narrative, the story invites readers to imagine how these adventures might have shaped the Bard’s iconic plays and sonnets.
With its meticulous historical research and a gripping, imaginative storyline, this book offers a fascinating tale of survival, ambition, and the transformative power of art. It’s a must-read for Shakespeare enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the mysteries of his early life.
General Thoughts on the Novel:
The author masterfully blends evocative prose with historical depth, creating a storyline that is both immersive and engaging. The narrative intertwines Shakespeare’s personal growth with his exposure to the turbulent world around him, suggesting how his encounters with betrayal, power struggles, and human folly may have inspired the timeless masterpieces he later created.
Set in Elizabethan England, the novel intricately depicts the political tensions, rigid social hierarchies, and the gritty realities of 16th-century life. The story follows a young William Shakespeare fleeing Stratford under shadowy and challenging circumstances. His journey introduces him to a vivid cast of ruffians, spies, and conspirators, drawing him into a world of danger and intrigue. These formative experiences are woven seamlessly into a speculative biography that fills gaps in Shakespeare’s life with a richly imagined narrative, balancing entertainment with historical plausibility.
One of the standout aspects of the novel is its focus on theater, the arts, and their connection to the broader cultural landscape of the era. The author vividly portrays Shakespeare not as a legendary figure, but as a vulnerable, resourceful young man navigating a complex world. This humanizing approach makes his story relatable while highlighting the transformative power of art.
The novel’s central themes—power, survival, artistry, and transformation—mirror the conflicts and complexities that appear in Shakespeare’s later works. I also appreciated the thoughtful connection between the title and the storyline, reflecting both the symbolic and literal themes of the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it to anyone intrigued by Shakespeare’s “lost years.” It offers a captivating interpretation of the experiences that might have shaped the world’s greatest playwright, providing both insight and entertainment. A truly remarkable blend of historical fiction and speculative biography, this book is a must-read for history enthusiasts and lovers of literary drama alike.
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Dec 17, 2024 | Editors' Blog, Editorial reviews
We recommend A New America for readers who enjoy political dystopias, cautionary tales like 1984 or The Road, and thought-provoking narratives exploring media, truth, and societal upheaval.
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
I find it surprising so many of us can reach across psychological lines of demarcation and sympathize with even the most corrupt and malevolent.
General Summary for Context:
Set in a world strikingly similar to our own, where global governments have been overthrown, a journalist embarks on a journey to a newly-formed nation carved out of the former United States. Tasked with reporting on this fledgling country’s struggle for survival, he uncovers an isolated society grappling with severe shortages and the cascading consequences of being cut off from the rest of the world.
Amid the chaos of political upheaval, the journalist stumbles upon a story far more profound—one that could redefine his understanding of truth and power. Through this gripping narrative, the author delves into pressing contemporary themes such as fake news, fear-mongering, political instability, and the far-reaching influence of public opinion.
Thought-provoking and deeply relevant, this novel is a compelling exploration of the fragile balance between power, perception, and the human spirit.
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Concise Review:
Frustrated by overregulation and governments that refuse to listen, people around the globe rise up in unprecedented protests, toppling regimes left and right. What begins as a groundswell of frustration with political corruption and manipulation evolves into an unlikely revolution—a worldwide movement that reshapes the very fabric of society.
Amid this upheaval, a journalist sets out to uncover the truth behind a new nation formed in the heart of the former United States. But as he crosses the border, the stark reality hits him like a chilling wind: this fledgling country feels eerily post-apocalyptic. Isolated and cut off from the rest of the world, its people struggle to survive without the conveniences and connections so many take for granted.
What begins as a straightforward story quickly shifts gears when the journalist stumbles upon a discovery with far-reaching implications. As he navigates the harsh political landscape, the challenges of this fractured world mirror the turbulence in his own personal life, deepening the story’s emotional resonance.
The narrative is interspersed with news articles and flyers, lending a raw sense of authenticity and grounding the fictional events in a strikingly realistic world. Through this lens, the book examines the fallout of global political collapse and the ripple effects on ordinary lives. It masterfully explores timely and pressing themes such as fake news, the importance of accurate media reporting, and the staggering influence of news outlets in shaping narratives and public opinion.
This is not a light or escapist read—it is a thought-provoking, chilling exploration of a world on the brink. With hauntingly vivid prose, it compels readers to ask, ‘What if?’ and leaves them pondering the delicate balance between order, chaos, and the stories that define our reality.
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General Thoughts on the Novel:
“A New America: The State of Independence” is a thought-provoking novel that dives deep into the “what ifs” of a nationwide revolution. What would happen if people rose up en masse? How would governments respond? How would the media cover it, and how would it impact everyday lives?
This is not a lighthearted tale. With its striking parallels to real-world events, the story carries a powerful emotional weight, immersing readers in a narrative that feels raw and unsettlingly real. As the plot unfolds, it challenges readers to confront difficult questions about power, politics, and the human condition.
The book’s authenticity and emotional depth leave a lasting impression, moving you and sparking reflection long after you turn the final page.
I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys political intrigue grounded in a believable, realistic world. This is a story that will stay with you, forcing you to think critically about the fragile balance of society.
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A New America: The State of Independence is available on Amazon.
Dec 16, 2024 | Editors' Blog
We recommend Specimen to fans of psychological thrillers and mysteries who enjoy complex characters, suspenseful twists, and a vividly atmospheric setting with elements of modern intrigue and personal transformation.
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
I just had to figure out a way to leave that didn’t involve a gurney.
General Summary for Context:
When Thea Riggs receives an urgent text from her best friend, Lisa Fenning, inviting her over for what she assumes will be a quiet evening, she is unprepared for the horror that awaits. Upon arriving at Lisa’s house, Thea discovers Lisa’s mother, Roberta, brutally murdered, her body lying in a pool of blood. Overcome with panic and fearing she’ll be implicated in the crime, Thea flees—unwittingly setting off a chain of events that thrust her into a perilous web of deception, betrayal, and mystery.
Determined to uncover the truth, Thea stumbles upon DSC, an enigmatic online game filled with cryptic puzzles and steganographic clues that may hold the key to Roberta’s murder. As the game pulls her deeper into its shadowy depths, Thea begins to suspect Lisa of orchestrating her downfall. Yet, paradoxically, Lisa might also hold the answers Thea desperately needs to unravel the mystery.
As the terrifying truth comes to light, Thea faces an impossible choice: Can she dismantle the syndicate’s deadly operation without sacrificing herself and those she loves? And, in the process, will she find the courage to share her truth—that she prefers women to men—with the people who matter most?
This gripping, genre-blending story weaves elements of mystery, psychological suspense, and personal growth into a taut narrative that will keep readers guessing until the very last page.
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Concise Review:
Lisa Towles delivers a masterclass in suspense with Specimen, a thriller that masterfully blends relentless tension, nuanced characters, and a vividly atmospheric setting. Thea Riggs, a sharp and resilient young protagonist, is thrust into a harrowing maze of deceit and peril when the discovery of a body in an affluent San Francisco home upends her life. Towles crafts a narrative that unravels with precision, seamlessly weaving together a cryptic online game, a clandestine crime syndicate, and the haunting echoes of a decades-old cold case.
The richly drawn San Francisco setting, brought to life with evocative detail, serves as both a backdrop and a character in its own right, adding layers of intrigue and vibrancy to the unfolding drama. Towles deftly explores themes of trust, identity, and personal transformation, guiding Thea through a journey of self-discovery as she grapples with the chilling realities surrounding her.
With pulse-pounding twists, expertly timed revelations, and a conclusion that lingers long after the final page, Specimen is a riveting page-turner that will leave fans of smart, action-packed thrillers thoroughly satisfied. This is Lisa Towles at her finest—a must-read for anyone seeking an engrossing blend of suspense and substance.
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General Thoughts on the Novel:
I thoroughly enjoyed this book—it was gripping, with a sound plot that kept me turning pages.
Specimen is a fantastic read that deserves to do well. With more resolution for the unanswered questions and loose ends, it would have been perfect in my eyes. Nonetheless, it’s a gripping, well-crafted story that I highly recommend.
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Specimen is available on Amazon.
Nov 29, 2024 | Editors' Blog
A Sci-Fi Book Bundle Deal so Good
Your E-reader will Think you Won the Lottery
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A Sci-Fi Book Bundle Deal so Good
Your Friends will Wonder Where you Disappeared to
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Christmas Comes Early for Sci-fi Fans:
A Book Bundle Beyond Compare
At a Price You’ll Never Believe
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I am a big reader. In fact, I have been reading science fiction for as long as I can remember.
As a bookworm, I’m always looking for opportunities that let me escape to the great unknown while also being easy on the wallet.
Well, I found one so good that I must tell everyone! You’ll be glad that Books Go Social is excited for me to share it with you on their blog.
This is a science-fiction deal you won’t want to miss out on. But you’ll need to act fast as it expires December 11 at midnight.
This eBook collection consists of books, novellas, and short stories from L. Ron Hubbard’s Writers of the Future Contest winners AND the judges (all mind-blowingly fantastic, best-selling writers).
The list of professional and award-winning authors in this collection is astonishing.
I’m also looking forward to the newer authors, who were hand-picked as winners by these masters. These writers had their stories chosen from thousands of submissions for their Writers of the Future award, and here are their next, newest creations!
You can choose between the base bundle of five books or the super bundle with nine more titles (a total of 14).
The base bundle:
1. Assemblers of Infinity by Kevin J. Anderson and Doug Beason
“Wonderfully vivid, Terrifying, and worse yet … realistic! ” —David Brin, author of Startide Rising
2. Unrivaled – an anthology of 4 Hugo and Nebula-winning stories by Joe Haldeman, Lois McMaster Bujold, Mike Resnick, and Nancy Kress
“Four of the most Outstanding and most acclaimed novellas in science fiction….”
3. The Stolen Gospels by Brian Herbert
★★★★★ “Thought-provoking fiction and thoroughly recommended book.”
4. Beyond All Weapons by L. Ron Hubbard
“A thrilling space adventure … the terror and excitement builds through to the end.” —Publishers Weekly
5. Trinity by Nancy Kress
“Every story is beautifully crafted and realized; all will leave readers excited and alert.” —Library Journal
The expanded bundle includes all of the above, plus:
6. Carousel by Orson Scott Card
★★★★★ “Lots of fun”
7. A Canadian Werewolf in New York by Mark Leslie
★★★★★ “Fast-paced, entertaining, and hilarious.”
8. The Jupiter Game by Todd McCaffrey
★★★★★ “Engaging and captivating. In a word, it’s a spellbinder.”
9. Oath of Fealty by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle
“Rare Storytelling…demands to be read at one sitting.” —Chicago Sun-Times
10. Mythology 101 by Jody Lynn Nye
“Wonderfully whimsical.” —Anne McCaffrey
11. Wake by Robert J. Sawyer
“Wildly thought-provoking. The thematic diversity — and profundity — makes this one of Sawyer’s strongest works to date.” —Publishers Weekly
12. Inner Workings: A Calendar of Fools Anthology featuring 12 short stories and essays by many Writers of the Future contest winners.
★★★★★ “Top-shelf stories. I had to make myself slow down.”
13. Writers of the Future Volume 39
“This is a treasure of extraordinary journeys beyond the boundaries of imagination—a “must-read” for science fiction and fantasy connoisseurs. Highly recommended!” —Midwest Book Review
14. Surprise Novel by a New York Times bestselling author
There’s so much I could say about the nine books in the expanded bundle: zombies, werewolves, aliens, spaceships, apparent utopias versus dystopia, elves living amongst us, artificial intelligence taking over, and every other sci-fi concept that hooks readers from the very first page! You won’t be disappointed.
The best part is that the price is so low you’ll think Christmas is early!
On Amazon, all the books in the base bundle, would cost $27, but with this special deal, the suggested price is $8! (Note: you can change the price to anything if it meets the minimum price requirement of $4.) CLICK HERE TO BUY ONLY THE BASE BUNDLE
The expanded bundle would cost over $71 on Amazon, and with this offer, the suggested price is $20 (with a minimum price of $12.) That is a 70% discount! CLICK HERE TO BUY ONLY THE ENHANCED BUNDLE
Also, 70% of your payment will go to the authors.
After you make your purchase, you will receive an email within 24 hours containing a link to download all of the books in ePub format. Visit the site for more details: https://www.arcmanorbooks.com/bundle
I won’t be blogging until after Christmas because I’m clicking on the enhanced bundle right now!
Can you believe an offer this good showed up in my feed?
Join me and tell me which story becomes your favorite.
John Carey
Bio:
John Carey has degrees in Chemical Engineering and Computer Science from Texas A&M University which paid the bills while he crafted his writing skills at nights and weekends. John is a frequent blogger providing insights on classic science fiction stories and also covering writing contests. He has recently published his second book, Not Worthy of the Air you Breathe set in the future where nations have taken a cue from the business world and terminate their low-performing citizens at the end of each year.
Nov 7, 2024 | Editors' Blog
We recommend this book to fans of epic, character-driven sagas with intricate mythology, intense quests, and themes of identity and destiny.
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
“Stop calling me a coward!” Adir yelled. He’d had enough of that kind of talk. Boar laughed derisively.
General Summary for Context:
This gripping story follows a protagonist whose quiet life is shattered when he’s falsely accused of murder after an unexpected death. Forced into exile, he becomes the target of a deadly secret society whose motives remain hidden from him. As he flees, he uncovers ancient prophecies that seem eerily connected to his plight, propelling him into a quest that unveils his crucial role in the fate of the world.
Through twists of mystery, danger, and discovery, he unravels the true depth of his destiny in this thrilling fantasy tale.
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Concise Review:
The book immerses readers in the richly dark and fictional realm of Leakarha, where prophecy, myth, and fate collide on an epic scale. At the heart of the story is a young man from the quiet village of Marafel, whose dreams of a life beyond his peaceful upbringing are abruptly shattered after a mysterious death brands him as a murderer. Forced to flee, he’s drawn into a web of revenge and danger, accompanied by his girlfriend—though their bond frays as trust erodes and their paths diverge. His relationship woes are further complicated when he encounters another woman from a different clan, sparking a new, complex connection.
Unbeknownst to him, he is relentlessly pursued by the Khasmia Shadow, a secret society determined to wield the legendary Staff of Beckoning to rid the world of an ominous force known as the Venna. His journey of self-discovery propels him into the heart of the epic struggles that define Leakarha, and he soon realizes that his fate may hold the key to the world’s destiny.
A beautifully crafted dark fantasy, this novel is a must-read for fans of intricate lore, ancient prophecies, and hidden secrets. It’s a captivating adventure that pulls readers into a realm where battles are fought with stakes of legendary proportions. Highly recommended for those who revel in the allure of dark fantasy.
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General Thoughts on the Novel:
This novel subtly explores themes of identity, destiny, and purpose through its protagonist, who begins as a carefree, happy-go-lucky figure. But a series of mysterious events label him a murderer, forcing him to flee his homeland and search for a new life in the far reaches of this dark, richly imagined fantasy world. The plot is intricate, weaving together a mythic history, societal divides, and moral dilemmas that lend a high-fantasy depth to the tale. The protagonist is masterfully developed, with the author delving into the fragile nature of his mind as he struggles to navigate his shifting emotions and confront the unfolding challenges before him.
With an ambitious scope reminiscent of The Wheel of Time, the story excels in its character depth, philosophical themes, and meticulous world-building. Its complex layers—logical, philosophical, psychological, and societal—add a satisfying richness. The story derives its strength from the seamless blending of mythology, reality, and fantasy, creating a multifaceted narrative that will resonate with fans of character-driven fantasy who are drawn to intricate explorations of identity and destiny.
This debut novel stands out for its immersive world-building and thoughtful, layered storytelling. For those who appreciate dark fantasy mixed with mythology and complex character arcs, this book is a must-read. As the first installment in a series, it promises an epic journey that will captivate lovers of high fantasy. Highly recommended for fans of elaborate, character-driven sagas.
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The Staff of Beckoning is available on Amazon.
Nov 1, 2024 | Editors' Blog
Today, we’re talking with Harker Jones about his book, Never Have I Ever
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I’m in Mensa. I took the test on a lark, and holy wow! I got in!
Why do you write?
To reach people. Whether they laugh or cry or throw the book across the room in anger, that means they were so moved that they had a visceral reaction. They’ll remember the story and the characters forever. And that’s priceless. Don’t get me wrong, I want money and awards, too! But that’s gravy!
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
I liked slasher movies and was a bored 17-year-old living on a dirt road in Michigan and, being a writer, I had quite an imagination, so I just went with it! I then turned it into a screenplay and have just turned it back into a novel. That’s why my inspiration came when I was 17, and it is also my current book! The journey has been fascinating, with these characters and their world. They changed a lot through the years yet also remained steadfast in what they always were.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
I don’t have just one genre, but I enjoy the same thing about all of them: telling good stories with memorable characters, whether it’s horror, comedy, children’s, or drama. I enjoy creating the worlds and the characters and setting them off on fantastic travels because I get to take those journeys with them. I’m just along for the ride as the characters reveal everything to me!
How would you describe your writing process?
I sit my butt in the chair and do it. That doesn’t mean I incite inspiration on command, but once I am inspired, I just sit down and do it. I always have a number of projects in the mix, so I can rotate them, coming at each of them fresh. Sometimes it’s a first draft, sometimes it’s a full edit, sometimes it’s inputting notes I’ve taken. It’s always fun no matter what part of the process I’m in, though!
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
I think it’s a great way to connect with both readers and other authors. There’s a huge support system out there, and you might as well take part in it. We all need support sometimes!
What advice would you have for other writers?
Sit your butt in the chair and do it. Don’t wring your hands and go on social media and moan about how you can’t come up with a name for your character or your blinking cursor on a blank page is taunting you. Put in a placeholder name and just start. You’ll likely toss much of it, but you’ll find something in there worth keeping. There’s no excuse for not doing it. Just START. Soon, you’ll find that the train has truly left the station, and you’re on the journey.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
The titles just come to me based on the material. I do steer away from generic titles like “The Title” and “The Book.” You know what I’m saying. I don’t want to say the name of any real projects with titles like that, though I probably couldn’t, because they are so forgettable! I scour the internet for images that reflect the book’s tone and story and then purchase them and send them to a graphic designer to tweak so that they even better reflect the project. I go back and forth with the designer on the font, size, and placement of the text so that it’s just right. I’m really surprised by how many books out there — both self-published and traditionally published — have covers that scream AMATEUR. It doesn’t take much time, effort or money to get a professional-looking cover, and it matters SO MUCH, just as the title does! Create a title that stands out. It doesn’t have to be a crazy, weird title, but something with a little panache that still represents your story.
What’s your next step?
My next step is getting my children’s book “The Bird Who Was Afraid to Fly” designed and published. I have the illustrations, it’s simply having the time to prioritize it! I also will be doing interviews for “Never Have I Ever” and pitching my screenplays and we’re in pre-production on a comedy short I wrote. It never ends! (In a good way!)
What book do you wish you’d written?
So many! I guess I’ll go with “House of Leaves” by Mark Z. Danielewski. It was endlessly creative. I would never in a million years have thought to structure a story the way he did!
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
Well, it starts with a dopamine rush because it’s like Christmas morning when you’re 8. Then there’s a rush of anxiety because I don’t know what the review will be. And then I celebrate when it’s positive, telling friends and family via social media, and just move on when it’s negative. Not everyone is going to love you and that is OK. Though it does suck every time!
FIND HARKER’S BOOK ON AMAZON
